Frequently Asked Questions

Speak Up for Kids is a community-based, grassroots campaign committed to the health, safety and well-being of all Wisconsin's kids. Following are a few frequently asked questions about advocacy and the program.

What is advocacy?

Advocacy, simply defined, is the action of speaking up for a cause you believe in. For us, that cause is the health and safety of children. That's why we've named our project Speak Up for Kids.

Why should I get involved in Speak Up for Kids?

If you want to be a part of a community-based, effective campaign to improve the quality of life of Wisconsin's children, then Speak Up for Kids is the perfect match.

By becoming part of Speak Up for Kids, you can make a difference in the lives of children, connect with other advocates in Wisconsin, and gain both knowledge on issues pertinent to child health and the tools to help you connect with your elected officials to make this all happen.

I don't have any advocacy training. Can I still get involved?

Absolutely! We encourage every member of the community with a desire to help Wisconsin's children to get involved in the Speak Up for Kids campaign, no matter how much, or how little, advocacy experience you may have. In fact, getting involved in Speak Up for Kids is a great way to build a sophisticated toolbox of advocacy experience that you can apply to future endeavors.

We especially encourage parents, grandparents, teachers, physicians, nurses, and students to get involved. By becoming part of Speak Up for Kids, you open the doors to a wide array of opportunities to develop community outreach and advocacy experience.

Who Do I Contact to Make My Voice Heard?

Contacting your local, state and federal legislators is a great way to make your voice heard, but they are not the only ones.

Consider contacting members of the Executive Branch, such as the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor. Although they don't make the laws, they can influence the legislative process.

Write a "Letter to the Editor" to your local paper. Legislators have staff members who keep an eye on what's written about them in their local papers. It is also a great way to inform others about your cause.

Talk to your friends about what you're doing. Word-of-mouth is one of the most effective ways to spread the message. That includes using your social networks, like Facebook and Twitter, which can help quickly spread your message.

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